Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The first statement came from the deputy leader of the Opposition, Senator Finucane, on the investigation into the Róisín Ruddle case. Following on from that the operations of 20 children have been cancelled. The Senator asked whether action would be taken. I understand that the Tánaiste said yesterday that the report on the case to which the Senator refers was almost to hand and will be published imminently. She gave that commitment in the other Chamber.

Senator O'Toole referred to a shortage of intensive care nurses and said incentives similar to those in other countries needed to be offered to attract these and other personnel who are in short supply internationally, in the areas of salaries, increased training places etc.

Senator Ryan raised the matter of Lyman Hams, the Palestinian girl murdered brutally by Israeli troops. He wanted a debate on policy in the Middle East. He also called for a debate on competitiveness. Senator Ryan maintained we are becoming increasingly decentralised, which indicates a lack of competitiveness and asked the new Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin, to come to the House.

I am not sure whether I can discuss what Senator Morrissey had to say, as the Cathaoirleach takes such a strong line on this matter.